The best retro sunglasses brands for men

New sunglasses trends rear their head every season, but more often than not it’s best to stick to the classics. Retro sunglasses take their design cues from vintage styles of yesteryear - they’re tried and tested designs that work with a wide range of looks, and for the most part never fail.

We’re talking keyhole shapes, Wayfarer styles, aviators and round frames - they’re easy to wear, look great with almost anything and you won’t be embarrassed to wear them this time next year.

At OPUMO we’ve got a range of vintage sunglasses styles to pick from, so it shouldn’t be too hard to narrow down your perfect shape, but to help you on your way we’ve rounded up our favourite retro sunglasses brands for men, to see us through to summer and beyond.

KAMO Palermo

Kamo produces outstanding contemporary eyewear with a focus on sustainability. Founded in Copenhagen, the label started with a classic, clean silhouette and has built up its impressive collection, currently comprising a long list of timeless retro sunglasses shapes. Since its inception, Kamo's goal was to develop high-quality sunglasses with distinctive designs at an affordable price. Danish designs, they're made in Italy and Japan with Carl Zeiss sun lenses.

Our favourite style from the label is the Palermo. These retro men’s sunglasses are characterised by thick acetate rims and a slightly angular top edge. While the style takes after round-rimmed frames, this angled top side lends it a stylish new lease of life.

FORA Rider

FORA is an independent eyewear brand committed to creating high-quality, handmade eyewear inspired by the people, places and stories of Lisbon. FORA was born in Lisbon in 2014 out of a strong passion for vintage eyewear and sunglasses design. The label believes in combining affordable quality, style and original brand DNA into every frame it makes.

When the sun’s out we’re reaching for the FORA Rider. This striking style makes an instant impact thanks to its retro, aviator-style bridge which is updated with round lenses. The high bridge was particularly popular during the ‘70s and ‘80s but was usually accompanied by square lenses.

MONC Løkka

Established in 2016, London-based MONC places equal importance on ethical production as it does the aesthetic of the finished product. The result is sustainably made shades in a range of classic shapes, updated with interesting colourways and patterns. You’ll find keyhole sunglasses in ‘limoncello’, and round silhouettes in ‘bottle green’.

Our favourite style is the latter. The Løkka model is inspired by the district of Oslo which gives it its name. A round style with deep grey lenses, the green of the frame makes for an eccentric accent to a range of looks. Pair it with layered workwear or minimal office attire and penny loafers.

VIU The Brash

Cutting-edge design meets expert craftsmanship to complete VIU’s mission to make prescription lenses and sunglasses that fuse timeless aesthetics with innovative technology. The result is a collection of frames that suit every personality and style, a commitment to fair prices and a transparent production process.

Why not make a statement with VIU The Brash?. This pair of slim retro sunglasses is made using acetate from one of Italy’s leading suppliers, offering a light and long-lasting pair of shades. As with all VIU sunglasses, this pair features anti-reflective, anti-scratch lenses thanks to high-end nano coatings that repel water and dirt.

Garrett Leight Hampton Sun

Inspired by his father - founder of Oliver Peoples - Mr Garrett Leight created his namesake brand, making this family somewhat of a sunglasses dynasty. Garrett Leight’s shades are among the best you’ll find anywhere, and the brand has outfitted everyone from Leonardo DiCaprio to President Obama, so you know its credentials stack up.

Among the California label’s best styles is the Hampton - part of its original collection in 2010, this classic keyhole shape is incredibly versatile and flatters most face shapes.

Our Legacy Embrace Glasses

Our Legacy creates clothes that are typified by subtle detailing, minimalist design and a strong emphasis on quality. It's more product-focussed than most clothing brands, so its pieces are stripped of conspicuous detailing, with the emphasis instead placed on top-quality craftsmanship. The result is an effortlessly stylish selection of modern menswear that is perfect for those who appreciate minimalist design with modern character.

The Our Legacy Embrace Glasses embody the label’s style. These minimal men’s sunglasses are easy to style while also offering a lively pop to your ensembles. Perfectly rounded lenses give these sunglasses a strong personality in keeping with the Our Legacy direction.